Maxine Makakua (rightmost), along with other regional winners of the Search for Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Child 2018 during the conduct of Araw ng Kabataan

“Go placidly amid the noise and haste…”

These are not just the opening line of 1927 poem written by Max Ehrmann entitled “Desiderata”. For Maxine, the very words that continuously prompts our hero’s selfless acts of kindness towards other children. It encourages her to academically perform and actively participate in different extracurricular activities. The phrase is her favorite from the poem that kindles our protagonist’s undying desire to give own family’s life a lot better. These qualities make our star one of the shiniest ones that ever radiated in the Pantawid Pamilya universe— one that tirelessly glitters and inspires other wanderers.

Being the second child
in a family with three (3) children, Maxine, equally loves both her
siblings and says that they
make family struggles lighter. The eldest of them, Princess Macryl who is, like
Maxine,is from a
Special Science Class at Araullo High School and the youngest, Prince Marcky who excels and
tops class shimmer in Makakua’s galaxy and together, the three (3) siblings
make such perfect constellation that brightens the days of their parents
despite poverty and hardship.

Maxine recalled how their life was changed by Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

Our achiever, even during her elementary
days at Apolinario Mabini Elementary School, had demonstrated her potential for greatness. Maxine bagged countless recognitions from
storytelling, Balagtasan, Quiz Bee
and Singing contests. Her winning streak was continued
upon entering Junior High which brought more distinction from participating inDramatic
Duologue Contest to Speech Choir Contest where the piece Desiderata really
marked Maxine’s perspective in life.

Maxine’s parents limitlessly show support by
being present in all the scholastic activities being participated by their
child and by pushing Maxine to do desired things for, Merry Cel, Maxine’s
mother, believes that nothing, not even poverty can stop Maxine max to reach
dreams in life and that their social status can never hinder.

These are just only few things that made
Maxine deserving for the title Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Child 2018 1st
Runner-up.

Now, our hero serves as a volunteer for Joy
Kiddie Center, a children-focused non-government organization where Maxine
tutors younger kids who enjoy listening to our champ’s applause-worthy playing
of angklung, ukulele, chimes and other musical instruments. Maxine explained
that service to youth, through blessing of strength and talent given by god,
gives such fulfilment and happiness that no amount of money can pay. Maxine
aspires to be a chef one for yet another selflessly innocent reason—to let
others enjoy dishes Maxine prepared.

Truly one who sees a silver lining in every cloud not only is
blessed but is also a blessing to others like Maxine, our star, who despite
experiencing poverty, shines luminously with pride and selflessness.